Revolutionizing heart surgery with robotic technology

AdventHealth Waterman has achieved a major milestone in heart surgery by using advanced robotic technology to treat heart disease.

Dr. Gary Allen, a cardiothoracic surgeon at AdventHealth Waterman, is now using the da Vinci robotic system to perform minimally invasive heart surgeries. This includes bypass surgery for blocked arteries, left atrial appendage closure to reduce stroke risk, and pericardial window surgery to drain excess fluid around the heart.

“We are thrilled to bring this revolutionary technology to the area,” said Allen. “The da Vinci robotic system enables us to perform intricate heart surgeries with greater precision, leading to better outcomes for our patients.”

What Robotic Surgery Means for Heart Patients

The da Vinci robotic system allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with less blood loss, less pain, a lower risk of infection, minimal scarring and quicker recovery times. Patients are routinely returning home within two or three days after surgery, compared to five to seven days with traditional surgery.

With small incisions and high-definition, magnified 3D imaging, the da Vinci system gives doctors better visibility inside the body for more precise movements.

The robotic approach opens the door for patients who aren’t candidates for traditional heart surgery. For example, Allen recently performed cardiac bypass surgery on a patient undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. This patient wouldn’t have been able to have the needed heart surgery if it were not for Allen and the da Vinci system.

These advancements show how robotic-assisted surgery is changing patient care for the better, making surgeries safer and more effective than ever before.

A Highly Trained Team

Prior to introducing cardiothoracic robotic surgery at AdventHealth Waterman, the team underwent months of rigorous training, including hands-on sessions with the experts at the Intuitive Surgical Lab, where the da Vinci system is manufactured.

“Our team dedicated countless hours to achieve the highest level of proficiency with this technology,” added Allen. “From simulations both in computer labs and in the operating room, we made sure the entire team was fully prepared to provide the highest level of care.”

The hospital also added a state-of-the-art robotic operating table, funded by the AdventHealth Waterman Foundation.

“We are incredibly grateful for all the work put into protecting the hearts of people in our region,” said Mabel Valdivia, AdventHealth Waterman Foundation executive director. “Thanks to the generosity of our incredible donors, we can continue to bring world-class clinical technology to our community.”

Exclusive heart care for Florida residents
This means patients can access the highest standard of care and the most innovative treatment options without traveling outside the community.

“Patients and their families no longer need to leave the area for life-saving robotic cardiac surgeries,” said Allen. “Our goal is to ensure that everyone has access to top-quality cardiovascular surgical care right here at home.”